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Executive Security

The Executive Security Unit (ESU) is a special unit of the Colorado State Patrol that has existed since the State Patrol was created in 1935. The unit consist of troopers, civilian security guards and a command center work force.The ESU provides 24-hour security at the State Capitol complex and at the Governor's Residence. In addition, the unit provides transportation and security for the Governor and the First Family.

Because the ESU has unique responsibilities beyond those of typical State Patrol personnel, ESU troopers have received specialized training in dignitary protection, bomb detection, critical incident management and media relations from agencies such as the FBI, the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Secret Service.

The main office of the Executive Security Unit is located near the Capitol building and serves as the hub for all ESU operations. Within the Capitol complex, the ESU provides security for the Governor's Office, the Legislature and the many citizens who visit the Capitol building, as well as security for the other buildings in the State Capitol complex. At the ESU command center, civilian employees monitor security cameras, alarms and other security systems that are located throughout the Capitol complex and elsewhere in the Denver metro area. They also monitor radio traffic and provide dispatch services for the Executive Security Unit.

The ESU also has a small office within the Capitol building, which is used to provide direct customer services for legislators, staff and visitors during normal business hours.

Capitol Security Protocols
You may download a .pdf of the Capitol Security Protocol by clicking here.

At the State Governor's Residence
The non-uniformed troopers who provide security at the Governor's Residence (also known as the Executive Residence) control access to the building, and they monitor the surveillance cameras and motion detectors that protect the exterior of the building. They also provide transportation and security for visiting dignitaries.

The ESU Bicycle Patrol
In 2000, a six-person bicycle patrol was created. The bicycles are used to patrol the Capitol complex and Veterans' Park. Bicycles offer some unique advantages in such locations -- they allow quicker response times and they can get into smaller places where patrol cars can't go.